An Introduction to Cybersecurity at Physical Layer: Obstacles at Radio Channel to Mitigate Hackers’ Chance

Abstract

Cybersecurity commonly focuses on higher layers of Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, as it is a discipline associated to Computer Science. However, physical layer is the front line of the defence of a system against external attacks, and Electrical Engineering, concretely Radiofrequency Engineering, can provide tools to reinforce radio networks also in terms of information security. This paper analyses different techniques related to site shielding. From hard traditional shielding, similar to Faraday cages, to different soft shielding solutions as vegetation fences and frequency selective surfaces (FSS), the variety of solutions is broad and would be useful in actual deployments. Finally, Building Information Modelling (BIM) appears as an interesting tool that could be incorporated along the design and construction of an office building to improve the electromagnetic behaviour, and subsequently the cybersecurity issues of the communication networks hosted by the building itself.